Technology and Young Children

During the preschool years, young children are developing a sense of initiative and creativity. They are curious about the world around them and about learning. They are exploring their ability to create and communicate using a variety of media (crayons, felt-tip markers, paints and other art materials, blocks, dramatic play materials, miniature life figures) and through creative movement, singing, dancing, and using their bodies to represent ideas and experiences. Digital technologies provide one more outlet for them to demonstrate their creativity and learning

Technology Tools and Interactive Media

Allow children to freely explore touch screens loaded with a wide variety of developmentally appropriate interactive media experiences that are well designed and enhance feelings of success.

Provide opportunities for children to begin to explore and feel comfortable using “traditional” mouse and keyboard computers to use Websites or look up answers with a search engine.

Capture photos of block buildings or artwork that children have created; videotape dramatic play to replay for children.

Celebrate children’s accomplishments with digital media displayed on a digital projector or on a classroom Website.

Incorporate assistive technologies as appropriate for children with special needs and/or developmental delays.

Record children’s stories about their drawings or their play; make digital audio or video files to document their progress.

Explore digital storytelling with children. Co-create digital books with photos of the children’s play or work; attach digital audio files with the child as the narrator.

Technology and Interactive Media as Tools in Early Childhood Programs Serving Children from Birth through Age 8